This is the time of year college students dread. The weather is beautiful. The beer is plentiful. The clothing is more revealing. The problem isn't the previous statements -- it's the finals.

But before the anxiety attacks come on full-force and you whip out the paper bag, take a look at this list of how-not-to-go-insane-during-finals-week-advice, before failing out of college.

**DISCLAIMER: This is by no means a professional list of advice; but it may make you smile enough to avoid thinking about your physics final you have in 10 minutes.**

While the professionals warn against the use of drugs (the legal kinds) -- caffeine and nicotine -- the truth is they do give you a temporary high and de-stressing feeling.

If you're simply cramming for a final and need the pick-me-up, down a cup of hazelnut coffee and take that drag off of the Camel Light -- it may just save you.

So the professionals, once again, do not suggest doing this, but tanning is one of the most relaxing experiences in which one can partake.

If you can handle the confinement of the bed, and the possibility of getting skin cancer, spend the money and time -- only 20 minutes -- and relax while fixing up your tired eyes and body.

Tanning gives you the opportunity to fall asleep (sort of) and listen to music. Make sure not to use the stand-up beds; they do not give you the same relaxing effect as the lay-down beds.

Do not fear falling into a deep sleep; when the bed turns off automatically and the tanning bulbs turn off, it's enough to wake even Rip Van Winkle.

Sit outside and study.

OK, it's corny, but the Old Main and HUB lawns are wonderful places to study, while still enjoying the very few days of sunshine we get in State College. Pack up your books and smell the flowers.

(I know I'm corny too -- but it's finals week, give me a break).

Run, walk, crabwalk, if you will, but get outside and shake out your limbs. Sitting cramped up in a building all day long will not help your mind, body or test-taking abilities. Get the blood flowing in your body by simply moving.

Cancel your cable. TV will only make you lazy.

You can simply go through the recycling bins around campus to get old Collegians for your dose of news (or crosswords).

Plus, the Collegian Finals Magazine is free; cable is not.

Seniors: Remember that these are the finals marking the end of your college career.

OK, now that I've scared you even more, think of it at least as going out with a bang.

Get that A+ that you've always said you were going to get.

Take this time to show your professors you really can get good grades. Better late than never?

If that fails, the bars are hopping now that the snow has melted.

However, do remember: the weather may change, but the beer brewers will keep on brewin' -- do not forget that.

It's an important piece of advice considering every time the sun shines in State College, the bars are absolutely packed as if hell has frozen over; as if Pennsylvania just stopped making beer. It won't happen, kids.

If you really need a break, try some mindless games such as: the chug-a-gallon-of-milk-in-an-hour game.

Or, the always favorite, eat-seven-saltine-crackers-in-one-minute game. These timeless moronic games can really spark some laughter with friends.

Do one thing you love at least once during this hell week.

It's so important to attempt to do some of your favorite things.

You truly will go off the deep end without some sort of normalcy from your everyday routine.

On a serious note, if you really are feeling terrible about anything in your life, the Center for Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) is available for you.

If you do feel overwhelmed, head to the professionals there; they know what they are doing and they might just be able to help you too. Give them a call at 863-0395.

Good luck -- you probably need it.